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Blood Clots

Despite the best efforts of clinicians, some patients develop deadly blood clots known as venous thromboembolisms (VTEs). Also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a VTE is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs, arms, or pelvis. If the clot dislodges and travels to the lung, it is called a pulmonary embolism. While anyone may develop a dangerous blood clot, hospital patients are often at higher risk because of their underlying condition, recent surgery, or immobility.

AHRQ's efforts to prevent and treat blood clots are reflected in the following tools, research, and resources.

Studies

PSNet
AHRQ's Patient Safety Network features studies on blood clots, ranging from a pediatric central line clot to a popular blood-thinner drug causing deaths and injuries in nursing homes. Studies on venous thromboembolism range from venous thromboembolism after trauma and use of multidisciplinary rounds for venous thromboembolism prevention to postsurgical pulmonary embolism.